North Augusta Proposes Dual-Lane Roundabout at Malfunction Junction

News Summary

City leaders in North Augusta are considering a dual-lane roundabout and safety improvements at the hazardous intersection known as ‘Malfunction Junction.’ With concerns from residents about safety and traffic flow, the proposed changes aim to enhance accessibility for both vehicles and pedestrians. However, public sentiment remains largely negative, with many community members proposing alternative improvements instead. A public input session is scheduled for May 12 to discuss the proposal further.

North Augusta city leaders are proposing a dual-lane roundabout and additional safety improvements at the complex intersection known as “Malfunction Junction,” where Georgia, Carolina, and Jackson Avenues converge. This intersection has been described as a five-way tangle characterized by awkward angles and excessive pavement, leading to frequent near-misses.

Wilma Allen, a local resident, has raised concerns about the challenges faced while navigating the intersection and emphasized the urgent need for a viable solution. Recognizing the inherent challenges, engineers initially suggested simpler fixes, including realigning Carolina Avenue and introducing a left turn lane from Georgia Avenue. However, these preliminary measures did not sufficiently address the ongoing traffic issues in the area.

The current proposal put forth includes the construction of a dual-lane roundabout, which is designed to improve traffic flow along Georgia Avenue while enhancing access for vehicles coming from Jackson Avenue and nearby establishments. Moreover, the plan places a strong emphasis on pedestrian safety, proposing the installation of crosswalks and flashing signals to protect individuals crossing the road.

As part of the strategy, angled parking will be transitioned to parallel parking, resulting in the loss of 22 parking spaces. The overall cost for these proposed improvements is estimated to fall between $6 million and $7 million.

City councilman Dennis Briatico disclosed that public sentiment regarding the project has been predominantly negative, with about 90% of community feedback opposing the proposed roundabout. Although some local business owners are in favor of the improvements, they represent a minority within the community. Concerns have also surfaced regarding the potential obstruction of historic views, particularly towards the Lookaway Inn.

Additionally, alternative suggestions from community members have focused on prioritizing other improvements, such as road repairs, enhanced parking facilities, or upgrades to the local animal shelter over the roundabout initiative. Other proposals include implementing traffic measures such as speed bumps, one-way street designs, and improved traffic signals to alleviate the current congestion.

Public input is scheduled for May 12, providing residents with another opportunity to express their opinions prior to a city council study session aimed at further evaluating the proposal. The last time the public was asked for their feedback on Georgia Avenue was in the fall of 2022, showcasing the ongoing community interest in the intersection’s future.

The city’s planning commission has recommended nearly $6 million worth of block-by-block improvements to Georgia Avenue, which align with engineers’ suggestions intended to bolster traffic safety and pedestrian accessibility. Previous studies funded by federal grants have evaluated the traffic conditions along Georgia Avenue, stretching from the 13th Street bridge to Martintown.

In a vote held on April 16, the planning commission expressed its support for the roundabout solution, marking a shift from a previously rejected proposal presented to the city council. As of now, the city council has not yet scheduled an official vote on the recommendations but intends to gather informal public feedback during the upcoming meeting on May 12 at 6 p.m. in the Municipal Building.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

North Augusta City Council Seeks Public Input on Safety Upgrades
North Augusta to Upgrade Roadways with $6 Million Plan

Additional Resources

• Post and Courier: North Augusta Council Wants Input on Georgia Avenue Improvements
• WRDW: CSRA Roadway Changes Before Holidays
• Aiken Standard: North Augusta Commission Roundabout Georgia Avenue Traffic
• Wikipedia: Roundabout
• Savannah Now: Road Improvements to Old Augusta Road
• Google Search: North Augusta Traffic Improvements